Put responsible governance around AI systems.
ISO/IEC 42001 is the world’s first international management system standard dedicated to artificial intelligence. It provides an auditable framework for governing how AI is designed, implemented, operated and continually improved.
NDC supports organisations through practical auditing and ISOcomply365, helping teams manage AI governance, risk assessments, objectives, controls and continual improvement from one platform.
Why ISO 42001 matters.
ISO 42001 helps establish clear AI ownership, define governance controls, manage lifecycle risks and demonstrate responsible, transparent AI management to customers and stakeholders.
Why get certified to ISO 42001?
Define clear ownership and accountability for artificial intelligence systems.
Assess risks and impacts throughout the AI system lifecycle.
Demonstrate a structured approach to responsible and transparent AI governance.
ISO 42001 at a glance.
- Management area
- Artificial intelligence governance
- Certification
- Third-party certification available
- Suitable for
- AI developers, providers and users
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we use ISO 42001 certification from a non-UKAS accredited certification body?
Yes. ISO standards are voluntary frameworks, and certification can be provided by a competent, independent third party as long as they do not falsely claim UKAS accreditation. NDC Certification Bureau operates transparently and audits against internationally accepted certification principles.
What is the difference between UKAS and Conformity Assessment Body certification?
UKAS-accredited certification means the certification body has been assessed by the UK accreditation body. Non-UKAS certification can still provide independent third-party assurance, but without the UKAS overhead. Many organisations choose this route to reduce time, cost and bureaucracy where formal UKAS accreditation is not required by contract or regulator.
Do ISO 42001 standards require UKAS-accredited certification?
No. ISO 42001 does not require UKAS-accredited certification in every situation. Some contracts, tenders or regulated customers may ask for UKAS specifically, but many organisations can use independent certification where the certification body is competent, transparent and clear about its status.
When would I need UKAS certification?
You may need UKAS-accredited certification where it is written into a contract, tender, regulator requirement or customer policy. NDC can help you check whether that requirement applies before you switch.
Can I hold both UKAS and non-UKAS Conformity Assessment Body certification?
Yes. Some organisations keep UKAS-accredited certification where it is contractually required and use NDC for additional standards, divisions or operating areas where a faster and more cost-effective route is appropriate.
Will clients or customers accept non-UKAS certification?
Many clients accept independent certification where it is clear who issued the certificate and what has been assessed. If a contract specifically requires UKAS-accredited certification, you should use a UKAS-accredited route. NDC can help you understand which route is appropriate before you switch.
Why are businesses switching from UKAS to NDC?
Businesses switch to NDC when they want a more practical certification route, lower compliance overhead, experienced UK auditors and clearer support through ISOcomply365 without paying for accreditation status they may not need.
How does NDC ensure quality and impartiality without UKAS?
NDC uses experienced auditors, structured audit planning, evidence-based reporting and impartial certification decision-making. The certification is presented transparently as NDC Certification Bureau certification, not UKAS-accredited certification.
Will I be able to say I am ISO 42001 certified if I use NDC Certification Bureau?
If you successfully complete the NDC audit and meet the requirements of ISO 42001, you may state that your organisation is certified by NDC Certification Bureau. You must not imply UKAS accreditation unless you hold UKAS-accredited certification.
How will switching our ISO 42001 certification to NDC save us money?
NDC combines experienced UK auditors with ISOcomply365, reducing manual preparation, duplicated documentation and unnecessary audit administration. The result is a more focused route to certification and lower internal resource cost.